背景资料：This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. Ligands of this family bind various TGF-beta receptors leading to recruitment and activation of SMAD family transcription factors that regulate gene expression. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer, which plays a role in bone and cartilage development. Polymorphisms in this gene may be associated with osteoarthritis in human patients. This gene is differentially regulated in multiple human cancers. This gene encodes distinct protein isoforms that may be similarly proteolytically processed.